I'm a retired nurse with over 20 years experience caring for people with dementia. I wrote "Kisses for Elizabeth: Common Sense Guidelines for Alzheimer's and Dementia Care."
I believe in using a common sense approach to solving caregiving problems and negative behaviors. For instance, keeping in mind that Alzheimer's and other dementias kill brain cells, it's important for caregivers to understand that the person who has it, cannot understand both sides of an issue. Arguing with them or saying no to them causes only agitation and upset. It could also lead to combative behaviors.
There are better ways to get the person with dementia to cooperate. It's easier to change the topic or bribe a person to cooperate with care, using distraction and treats. For instance, "Mom, I've got some of your favorite cake. We can have it after your shower."
There are lots of other things caregivers can do to make their jobs easier and help the person with Alzheimer's or other dementias have a higher quality of life. This is also true for people in nursing homes.
I'd love to be a resource to people in the Fairfax Station area who have dementia in their families. I'd be happy to respond to comments or questions.
Stephanie Zeman
